Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad

This classic Chicken Caesar Salad is made with crisp romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan cheese, juicy grilled chicken, and perfectly crunchy homemade croutons tossed in an easy and delicious creamy caesar dressing. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!

The Best Classic Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad

When it comes to main dish salads, it’s hard to beat this classic. Crispy romaine, tender chicken, salty cheese and crunchy croutons… all tossed in a creamy flavorful dressing. It’s satisfying, simple, and so delicious.

If you’ve never made homemade croutons, let me tell you a little secret. They are crazy easy… and SO much better than their store-bought counterpart. And they totally make this salad. It’s also a great way to use up bread that has gone a little stale. Cube it up, toss it in some garlicky-peppery olive oil and bake until crispy.

And can we talk about the dressing? Simple, creamy, and deliciously savory. Just whisk it up or throw it in a blender. And it’s made with pantry staples, so truly there will never be a good reason to buy it again. If the idea of adding anchovy paste freaks you out, it’s ok. I get it. But trust me here. It just gives the yummy, salty flavor you love in caesar dressing… with no fishy taste whatsoever. But if you absolutely must, you *can* leave it out. Just don’t tell me.

Ingredients You Need To Make Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad:

• Chicken Breast
• Oil
• Salt & Pepper
• Romaine Lettuce
• Parmesan Cheese

Homemade Croutons:

• French Bread
• Olive Oil
• Fresh Garlic
• Salt & Pepper

Creamy Caesar Dressing:

• Avocado Oil
• Mayonnaise
• Lemon
• Anchovies
• Parmesan Cheese
• Garlic
• Dijon Mustard
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Salt & Pepper

How to Make Chicken Caesar Salad:

1. Cook the chicken. I always do a simple pan-fried chicken breast for this salad. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and allow to cool slightly.
2. Make the croutons. In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Cut the french bread into 1-inch cubes. Add to the bowl and toss to coat. Spread the bread cubes onto a large baking sheet and bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until toasted and crispy.
3. Make the dressing. Add all of the ingredients to a blender or small food processor. Process until smooth and creamy. Or, add everything to a small bowl and whisk until well combined.
4. Assemble the salad. Chop the romaine, shred the Parmesan cheese, and slice the chicken. Add the lettuce to a large serving bowl and top with cheese, croutons, and chicken. Serve with dressing. Enjoy!

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Tips & Suggestions

All of these ingredients can be made ahead of time, making this a super quick and easy weeknight meal.

Leave off the chicken and serve as a simple but delicious caesar side salad.

Add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or avocado.

Leftover dressing will last 2 to 3 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

You do not HAVE to use anchovies in the dressing. However, you won’t get the same amazing flavor if you leave them out.

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